The second running of the $200,000 Monmouth Stakes June 13, a 1 1/8-mile turf event that has the look of a graded event, figures to serve as a solid prep for the $750,000 United Nations Stakes (gr. IT), the New Jersey track's top grass offering of the season on July 4.

Without a Triple Crown on the line, this year's TV coverage of the June 6 Belmont Stakes (gr. I) attracted approximately half the number of viewers as last year, when Big Brown was attempting to win the Triple Crown at Belmont Park.

Passage of legislation that would allow video lottery terminals at Kentucky racetracks would provide a boost to the state's yearling auctions later this year, according to Brereton Jones of Airdrie Stud.

Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Mine That Bird returned to the racetrack for the first time since finishing third in the June 6 Belmont Stakes (gr. I) by leisurely back-tracking once around the Churchill Downs oval June 11 under exercise rider Charlie Figueroa.

Sellers of yearlings in Britain and Ireland are working to put together a bonus fund worth £2-million (approximately $3,269,400 in U.S. funds) for the connections of nominated horses that win maiden races next year for 2-year-olds. Each bonus will be worth £10,000 ($16,347), and it is hoped that up to 200 races will be supported. Some of the bonus money also will be made available to 3-year-olds.

All the obvious thoughts on this year's bizarre, but memorable Triple Crown have been discussed regarding the major players. But there were unsung heroes as well who did not wind up in the winner's circle, yet contributed to the memories.

Kristen and Jennifer Paragallo, the daughters of Ernie Paragallo who faces 22 counts of animal cruelty, have relinquished their owners' licenses.

"The surrendering of the two licenses from (Paragallo's) daughters came during our suitability review," said Joe Mahoney, a spokesperson for the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, on June 10. "Tha...